Wiltshire Police have renewed an appeal to the public to help identify an outstanding suspect linked to a major sexual offences investigation in Swindon, in which six people – including Philip Young – have been charged.
The appeal follows Young’s appearance at Winchester Crown Court, where the 49-year-old, formerly of Swindon and now living in Enfield, pleaded guilty to 48 sexual offences committed against his former wife, Joanne.
Young admitted 11 counts of rape, 11 counts of administering a substance with intent to stupefy or overpower to allow sexual activity, 14 counts of voyeurism, seven counts of assault by penetration, four counts of sexual assault and one count of publishing an obscene article.
He denied charges of making indecent images of children, possessing prohibited images of children and possessing extreme pornographic images. Those matters will proceed to trial at Winchester Crown Court on October 5.
As the wider case continues through the courts, Wiltshire Police have reiterated their request for help in identifying a man believed to be connected to the investigation. Officers have released images taken around April and May 2022.
The man is described as being of a large build, with a hairy appearance, scarring on the back of his head, prominent lips and short or shaved hair. He is also said to have a distinctive tattoo on the left side of his chest.
Police say it is not known whether the man lives locally or travelled into the area, and are urging people across Wiltshire and beyond to review the images.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Superintendent Geoff Smith said: “This is a significant investigation in which several suspects have appeared in court charged with various serious sexual offences.
“This man remains unknown and we remain really keen to identify and speak with him in connection with the case.
“We appreciate the graphic nature of these images and that they may be triggering to some people, however we need the public’s help to identify this man.
“It is unknown whether he lives in Swindon or from outside the county, which is why we request that this is shared as widely as possible to assist our bid to identify him.
“This appeal has once again been made with the pre-sight and support of the victim, Joanne Young, who has waived her right to anonymity.”
Detective Superintendent Smith also praised Joanne Young for her courage throughout the investigation and said she continues to be supported by specially trained officers.
Members of the public who believe they recognise the man are asked to email
Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Wiltshire Police have warned that some details connected to the case may be distressing, but stressed that public support is vital in helping bring the investigation to a conclusion.
Other defendants have also appeared in court in connection with the case and have pleaded not guilty to a range of serious sexual offences. Proceedings against them are ongoing.
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